Amnesty calls on Ukranian parliament to reject anti-gay laws

By agency reporter

July 10, 2012

The Ukrainian parliament must reject two draft laws which are a direct assault on lesbian, gay, bisexual and inter-sex people’s rights and in contravention of the country’s international obligations to protect the right to non-discrimination, Amnesty International has said.

The draft laws purport to protect the rights of children by denying them information relating to homosexuality.

If enacted, says Amnesty, the legislation would have the effect of discriminating against lesbian, gay, bisexual and inter-sex individuals in their exercise of the rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly.

Heather McGill, Amnesty International’s expert on Ukraine, said:“The draft laws appear to be the outcome of stereotypical views on homosexuality rather than the result of a thorough process aimed at seeking the views of children and ensuring their best interest.

“If it is to live up to European and international human rights standards, the Ukrainian government must strive to create a society in which diversity is viewed not as a threat, but as a source of enrichment for society as a whole.”

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